Modern lingual braces were developed by a pioneering Japanese orthodontist in the 1970’s. His motivation was to develop an orthodontic system for martial artists which protected their cheek and lips from injury during bouts.

Another pioneering orthodontist from the US also wanted to provide an orthodontic solution which was more cosmetic and aesthetically appealing. Over the years, this has evolved resulting in highly sophisticated lingual orthodontic systems, the most popular one being incognito.

Modern day lingual braces are designed for patients who want to straighten their teeth quickly, precisely and most importantly discreetly.

The incognito lingual brace system has become very popular and we are delighted to provide this at the neem tree dental practice with our specialist Dr Steffen Decker who has completed over 800 cases and performed a masters in this field of orthodontics. He is a leading expert in this field and teaches worldwide on the subject of lingual orthodontics.

Advantages of lingual braces

Appearance

The main advantage of lingual braces is that they are extremely discreet. By being attached to the inside or backs of the teeth, no metalwork is actually visible when smiling or speaking. This is important to people in professions that require a lot of face to face interaction.

Whilst Invisalign aligners are also extremely discreet, they have to be removed when eating. This can lead to problems with compliance and ultimately the final result as the teeth are only actively moving when the aligners are worn. In contrast, lingual braces are permanently fixed in place so are constantly moving the teeth.

More precise movement of teeth

With the advancement of modern orthodontics, digital impression taking, computer aided design and manufacture have resulted in incredibly sophisticated orthodontic systems, particularly incognito. Not only does this improve the accuracy of the braces placed but also allows for more detailed control of tooth movement with a fantastic end result that can be achieved over a much shorter time period.

Furthermore, the incognito brace system uses gold brackets which are precisely customised to the shape of the teeth so that they provide greater control and more precise movement than other clear aligner systems. They can be used to correct all forms of malocclusion (when teeth don’t meet together properly) crowded teeth and spaces between teeth.

Staining

Normal orthodontics can result in some teeth staining if oral hygiene isn’t maintained or if the wrong foods are consumed as they are attached to the front of the teeth. This becomes apparent when the braces are removed and can leave some staining or decalcification marks on the teeth. With lingual braces these stains / marks are conveniently hidden as the brace is attached to the back of the tooth.

Disadvantages of lingual braces

Speech

Immediately after placement of the brace, you may notice a lisp. This will be temporary lasting only a few days. Your tongue will eventually get used to the new braces and can accommodate for them. Furthermore, we can provide some tips and tricks to help adjust accordingly.

Due to the limited space in the mouth the tongue can also rub against the brace which can be quite sore initially. This will improve and we can give special waxes to place over the part of the brace that is sore.

Cost

Lingual braces (braces attached to the backs of the teeth) are usually more expensive than traditional braces and the cost can vary on the complexity and length of treatment. This is because the incognito brace components are made of gold and customised for each individual tooth.

Our orthodontic specialist Dr Steffen Decker has not only completed a masters in lingual orthodontics, but runs courses and lectures other orthodontists on the incognito lingual brace system.

Eating

Removable aligner systems such as invisalign are removed when eating. This enables you to be able to most foods irrespective of their consistency. Fixed braces, particularly lingual braces may not tolerate chewy, hard foods which can damage any part of the brace system.

fee guide

Lingual Braces

from £4,000

frequently asked questions

Will the brace be visible?

The brace is applied to the inner surfaces of the teeth, so any friends, family and work colleagues will not be able to seem them, unless of course they look directly inside your mouth.

How will it affect my speech?

There may be a slight lisp to begin with, but this will improve with time as your tongue adapts to the brace. Practicing speaking also helps with adaptation.

Why are gold brackets used?

Gold is one of the most unreactive metals and more resistant to deterioration than other materials used in orthodontics.

In addition, they are a great choice for patients who have a nickel allergy.

Are lingual braces painful?

There may be some initial discomfort whilst your tongue adapts to the new brace.

However, the incognito brackets are uniquely designed and customised to each individual tooth to minimise any potential discomfort.

How much does it cost?

Depending on the extent and complexity of the treatment the cost can vary. Incognito lite starts from £2,995 for less complex tooth movement.

For more complex tooth movements normal incognito starts from £5,995.

What is the process?

A digital scan is taken of your teeth which is then sent to the incognito factory. The scan records the unique structure and shape of your teeth.

From this scan gold brackets to be attached to the teeth are made in addition to customised wires which are attached to the teeth in order for them to begin to move.